Most housewives prefer not to buy cookware that cannot go into the dishwasher (or washing machine), since washing dishes is one of the least liked household chores. For this reason, many try to keep hand-wash-only items out of their kitchen cabinets.
However, in reality, many still end up washing some essential kitchen tools by hand—often because they did not read the fine print on the label when purchasing them (who would expect that a vegetable grater is not dishwasher-safe?). Therefore, it is important to keep the following 15 items away from the dishwasher.
Cast Iron
Cast iron cookware should never be placed in the dishwasher. In fact, it is recommended to avoid soap as much as possible. Soap and abrasive sponges can damage the seasoning layer, so it is better to clean it using coarse salt. If it is accidentally washed with soap, it can be re-seasoned by coating it with oil and heating it in the oven.
Non-Stick Cookware
Metal utensils and dishwasher pressure can damage the non-stick coating, reducing its effectiveness and shortening its lifespan.
Crystal Glassware
Crystal glasses are delicate. High heat and strong water pressure can cause cracks or cloudiness over time, so handwashing is recommended.
Wooden Cutting Boards and Utensils
Dishwasher heat can warp or crack wood, making it unsuitable for wooden kitchen tools.
Insulated Travel Mugs
The insulation layer between the inner and outer walls can be damaged in the dishwasher, affecting performance and causing leaks.
Copper Cookware
Copper reacts easily with heat and water, which can ruin its shine. Handwashing is safer for maintaining its appearance.
Quality Kitchen Knives
Dishwasher conditions can dull blades and even cause rust, especially in carbon steel knives.
Graters
Graters can lose sharpness in the dishwasher, and food particles often remain trapped in small holes, making handwashing more effective.
Aluminum Cookware
Dishwashing can cause oxidation, leading to discoloration and dullness on aluminum surfaces.
Pressure Cooker Lids
Lids contain valves and rubber seals that can trap food or get damaged, reducing the appliance’s lifespan.
Milk Glass
Repeated dishwasher cycles can turn milk glass yellow. Gentle handwashing is preferred.
Thin Plastic Containers
Thin plastic may melt or warp in the dishwasher unless clearly labeled dishwasher-safe.
Storage Containers with Lids
Rubber seals and gaskets may degrade or stop working properly after repeated dishwasher cycles.
Family Heirlooms
Any valuable or sentimental kitchen item without clear cleaning instructions should never be placed in the dishwasher.
Items with Labels or Adhesives
Hot water can destroy labels, and detached pieces may clog the dishwasher filter.
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